How to Choose Windows for Your Garage Door

November 4, 2021 | By: Marvin’s Garage Doors

Windows can transform your garage into an aesthetically pleasing entrance to your home. If you are wondering what size garage door windows normally are, rest assured that, structurally, window inserts won’t affect the stability of a garage door. Also, they come in many different shapes and sizes, so the style options are endless. To help you decide, take a look at the benefits and considerations. 

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5 Benefits of Garage Door Windows 

If you want to improve your home’s curb appeal or upgrade the exterior, garage door windows are a great option. Consider the following five benefits to see if garage door windows are the right choice for you: 

1. They Bring in Natural Light 

Garage door window inserts can offer privacy while bringing in an abundance of natural light, which is especially helpful if you have a workspace in your garage. Exposure to natural light has many benefits, including better sleeping patterns, increased focus, reduced stress and more energy. So if you spend a lot of time in your garage, then window inserts are a great option. 

2. Window Inserts Can Save Energy 

Having windows in your garage can save energy. Have you ever forgotten to switch off the garage light, or do you have a workspace and constantly have your light on? Having windows in your garage door can reduce your energy costs by bringing in natural light for you to see. 

3. They Can Increase the Outside Aesthetic Appeal 

While windows on garage doors aren’t essential, they can enhance your home’s curb appeal. Garage door windows add a touch of sophistication that will add to the look of your beautiful home. This aspect is especially helpful if you’re in the process of renovating your home to sell it, as adding matching windows to your garage door can attract potential buyers. 

4. Garage Windows Increase a Home’s Value 

Adding windows to your garage door can turn the space into more than just storage for your car, but a welcoming area that you can use as a game room or a workroom. Customizable window inserts also create a visually appealing aesthetic and cohesive look to your home. 

5. They Are Completely Customizable 

The best thing about garage door windows is that you can choose whatever design you want. The glass panels come in different shapes, sizes and colors, so your options are endless.

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Should You Get Garage Door Windows? 

Choosing to install garage door windows depends on your location, budget and goals. Getting window inserts can improve your home’s curb appeal and increase value. So if you’re planning on selling or renovating your home, garage door windows can enhance the quality and overall look. 

There are a few other considerations to take into account before making your decision, such as: 

• Security risks: If you live in an area prone to break-ins, consider the type of window inserts you want to install. Certain panes may allow thieves to look into your garage and break in. However, there are glass options that can limit break-ins, such as tinted or frosted glass that don’t allow thieves to look in. Other options to lower the risk include additional security measures like outdoor cameras or built-in notification systems. 
• Extreme weather conditions: If you live in an area prone to extreme weather conditions, you may experience a couple of shattered panels now and then. Thankfully, replacing these panels is relatively easy. Or, if you want to prevent your windows from breaking at all, tempered glass is a great alternative insert option that is four times stronger than regular glass. 
• Homeowner’s association (HOA) regulations: If you live in a complex or secured area, there might be certain HOA regulations you’ll need to follow concerning styles, colors and shapes. So before you choose a style it’s best to make sure your garage door design complies with the regulations. 
• Maintenance: Cleaning a garage door isn’t always at the top of the list, but since we use our garages every day, it’s important to get rid of dirt and grime to minimize damage and keep the machinery functioning properly. If you install garage door windows, your cleaning schedule will need to include wiping down window surfaces every season to get rid of dust build-up. However, this task can be easily done using a mild liquid soap and water. 

How to Pick Garage Door Windows 

Think about your goals and then choose the best type and shape of garage door windows for your home. Clear glass provides an abundance of natural light, but if you want privacy with the benefits of natural light, opting for tinted, patterned or rectangular glass panels is your best option. Your budget also plays a part in your decision. Here are the different types and shapes of glass inserts to consider: 

Types of Glass for Garage Doors

The first aspect to consider when choosing windows for your garage doors is the type of glass you want. Some types of glass include:

• Tempered glass: Considered a type of safety glass, if this material breaks it’s safer and easier to clean up. 
• Standard single glass pane: The most cost-effective type is a single pane of glass. 
• Double pane: These window inserts provide some insulation and come in a variety of different types. 

The various double pane options you can select from are:

• Tinted glass: This type of glass can come in various thicknesses and colors like shades of greens, blues or grays.
• Frosted glass: Has a misty look and offers increased privacy. 
• Patterned glass: Another option for improved privacy is patterned glass, which can come in many different patterns to suit the exterior of your home. 
• Mirrored glass: This type of glass reflects the outside during the day, creating privacy while bringing in natural light. At night, however, the mirrored glass loses its reflection and becomes completely opaque. 

Window Shapes for Garage Doors

If you are interested in installing garage doors with windows, there are several types of shapes you can choose from, including:

• Colonial
• Stockton
• Sunset
• Charleston
• Madison
• Prairie
• Plain/Clear – Rectangle, Square & Arch
• Rectangle with Grilles
• Square with Grilles
• Arch with Grilles
• Wrought Iron Designs

Check Out Our Other Garage Door Styling Tips

Are Garage Windows Worth It?

When it comes to increasing your home’s value or improving curb appeal, glass inserts can enhance your garage and your overall exterior. Consulting a qualified garage company like Marvin’s Garage Doors and asking for advice can help you make the best decision. 

Marvin’s Garage Doors is a family-owned and -operated business that has been serving the local area since 1970. We install and service residential and commercial garage doors in North Carolina. If you need some expert advice, get in touch with us today!